Edwardian Etiquette of the Sexes

Such familiarity is not proper. A kiss should be held too sacred and valuable to be given away promiscuously.

Dear Mrs Adams,

1. Is it proper for a young lady to take a man’s arm while out walking? I find it somewhat awkward to know what to do with my hands.
2. What should I say when asked to go to the theater or other places of amusement if I wish to accept? I do not wish to appear over anxious, and yet really enjoy going.
3. Is it perfectly proper for a young lady to kiss a young man if they are not engaged? I have not been brought up to think so, but many seemingly nice girls think it is all right. I would appreciate your views on the subject.
4. I very much admire a young man, as he comes from a very fine family, but the only thing is he is “too familiar” in a way, and continually wants to “hold hands” which I consider very silly and unladylike. I do not in the least approve of this sort of thing and would like to know how I can tell him so, without hurt hurting his feelings. A few suggestions from you certainly would be appreciated.


1. She should not do so unless there is a great need of assistance.
2. Be frank and say: “Yes, thank you, I shall be glad to go.” 
3. Such familiarity is not proper. A kiss should be held too sacred and valuable to be given away promiscuously.
4. First of all, I should tell the young man that I disapproved of such actions. If he disregarded the statement, I should forbid him to call. It would be better to give up his society, than to lose your dignity. — The Los Angeles Herald, 1911

Etiquette Enthusiast, Maura J. Graber, is the Site Editor for the Etiquipedia© Etiquette Encyclopedia